How Art Heals in Times of Upheaval: An Interview with Maria-Lana Queen
- web4445
- Apr 18
- 3 min read
Witness how art transforms struggle into strength through the powerful story of a self-taught painter, Maria-Lana Queen. From grief to advocacy, her journey reveals how creativity heals both maker and viewer—proving, as Toni Morrison wrote, 'This is precisely the time when artists go to work.' Discover how one artist’s brushstrokes preserve history, mend hearts, and defiantly declare: 'We will never be erased.' Read her interview below.
Q1: When the world feels heaviest, your art becomes a kind of labor. What compels you to show up to that work—even (or especially) when society seems fractured?
For me, art is not a labor. It is more or less a release for me. I love to paint and even during hard times or times of despair similar to the current climate that we're living in, I turn to art to paint those emotions and it is my hope that I can help others appreciate the work and heal or take their mindset to a different level of distraction. My work is intentional meaning that it is every day releasing. Perhaps, what I can't release verbally, I do so visually. It represents advocacy and resilience.
Q2: Art made during major societal changes often becomes a lifeline for others. Has there been a moment when your creativity unexpectedly sustained someone beyond yourself? How did that reshape your purpose?
I would say that my friend Marva gave me a set of art supplies about 24 years ago. I was experiencing the grief of a brother who passed away. I chose to use those art supplies to start painting my emotions and what I felt. I am a self-taught artist. That was the reason Marva gave me those supplies. As a result, it changed my life. I, in turn also changed her life through my art creations when her son passed away. She loves art, and together, we discovered more about ourselves, our passions, overcoming grief, and life in general. Art has restored my entire life because it is what I live and breathe every day! It brings joy to me when I see the reaction that others have to my creations. I know that my purpose in life is to make a difference through art!
Q3: Upheaval reveals gaps in our cultural narrative. What story, image, or melody are you uniquely positioned to bring into the world now—one that might not exist without your voice?
It is my hope that my artworks preserve history and culture that others work to erase! It is important for the next generation to know about what may soon be completely erased from history books. They will see those facts through my art narrative! And it is my hope that the message will resonate loud and clear that we will never be erased! For every effort to do so, my artworks will continue to replace!
"Art has restored my entire life because it is what I live and breathe every day! It brings joy to me when I see the reaction that others have to my creations. I know that my purpose in life is to make a difference through art!" - Maria-Lana Queen
ABOUT RHYTHM VISIONS
Rhythm Visions Production Company is a non-profit that empowers artists and communities through transformative initiatives, which foster creativity, collaboration, and growth.
